Current CD playes and transports

Obselete is a very strong word and in the context of this discussion its use is hyperbole. The CD format is no longer the current state of the art, but it's certainly not obselete. However, I don't see that manufacturers will continue to develop and make sonic progress with this format. If the past gives us any direction, I don't believe CDs will mimic vinyl. As the vinyl format was displaced the quality of the equipment dramatically rose. The backward compatibility of the CD format may ease the cross over to the latest and greatest, but it may relegate CDs to an afterthought, similar to AM radio. Which way do YOU think CD is heading -- like vinyl or AM? Enjoy what you have now, but as music lovers we are hostages of a small number of large multi-national entities who, at best, only pay lip service to sound quality.

Good post Hwy61, especially your last sentence-- maybe a bit morose but unfortunately accurate. I have a little different take on the CD vs DVD-A formats though, eg I just see the DVD-A format as an improvement or extension of CD. I have no problem with the idea of a DVD player sitting next to my CD player, and I have no problem with the idea of purchasing DVD-A titles-- if it proves to be worthwhile. I've lived through 78s, 45s, LPs, cassettes, CDs, (and some obscure other formats)-- DVD-A is just another format. Cheers. Craig.

Man, some of you guys are OLD. I remember listening in 1975 to Tres Hombres in the quadraphonic 8 track format where I was properly positioned and fueled. It was remarkable, as I recall. (I always thought that died 'cause it was so hard to afford 4 good speakers vs. 2.) Do any of you have one of those in your closet collecting dust? I would like to hear that again! Charlie

Yeh, and Betamax is better than VHS. Apple Mac operating system better than Windows. The best format does not alway win.

I believe "quad" failed because in part because there were compatibility issues /this quad cartridge wouldn't play another mfg's quad disc.The economy also played its part. Heck even 8 track was better than cassette.Larger tape/faster speed. Reg.DVD is the fastest growing format.Check the floor space at your local Blockbuster. There is little reason for mainstream America to go for SACD,or DVD-A.Now back to CDs,they will be here for a much longer time.The improvements in cd playback are worth the price to those with large collections.A good transport/a good dac are worth acquiring if you are in this group ; Those pursuing the absolute sound from their collections.